Senior midfielder Tanner Thompson is already proving why he earned so many preseason accolades entering this season.
Through the Hoosiers’ first two games, Thompson scored two game-winning goals over New Mexico and UC Irvine to give IU its first 2-0 start since 2012.
The preseason All-American sealed the victory in dramatic fashion against New Mexico in the first game of the Mike Berticelli Memorial Tournament in South Bend, Indiana. After a scoreless match for the first 89 minutes, Thompson converted a penalty kick with just 30 seconds remaining in regulation to propel the Hoosiers past the Lobos, 1-0.
“I thought New Mexico was a very excellent and mature team,” IU Coach Todd Yeagley said. “Our rhythm and attacking wasn’t great today, but I thought we battled and adjusted. I know offensively we will perform much better moving forward.”
The free kick in the final minute was a result of the Hoosier offense firmly attacking the New Mexico net and trying to avoid overtime. Freshman defender AJ Palazzolo ripped a shot that was blocked by a Lobo defender as junior defender Grant Lillard corralled the loose ball.
Lillard attempted to chip a shot over the Lobos’ defense, but a handball was called as a defender batted the ball down in the box to set up Thompson for the game-winner.
“Tanner has worked so hard and he definitely played up to his ability today and showed why he is a player of the year candidate,” Yeagley said. “That’s a big moment for a big player, and he hit it really well.”
Against UC Irvine on Sunday, the Hoosiers found themselves on the scoreboard early, thanks again to the duo of Thompson and Lillard.
A yellow card from UC Irvine in the 22nd minute allowed Thompson to take a free kick for IU. Thompson’s insert into the box found the head of Lillard near the back post for his first goal of the year and a 1-0 lead over the Anteaters.
IU would keep that lead into halftime, seeking to find assurance against UC Irvine.
Senior goalkeeper Colin Webb played well in the first matchup against New Mexico, recording four saves in his 21st career shutout. On Sunday, he held the Anteaters scoreless until the 64th minute when midfielder Jose Ortiz found the back of the net from 20 yards out with his left foot.
The goal didn’t faze Thompson or the other Hoosiers because 12 minutes later the senior midfielder sprinted down the left side of the pitch with the ball and ripped a shot on goal from 15 yards center to regain the IU lead.
“I think Tanner today showed what you want out of any senior leader,” Yeagley said. “From the first whistle to the final in both games, I thought he impacted the game in a positive way.”
Senior forward Rich Ballard added a late unassisted goal right before the final whistle to secure the win for IU.
“I thought we played OK today, it was a good win and it’s great to be 2-0,” Yeagley said. “We have to give Irvine credit, they made it difficult today, but I thought we stayed composed and we were ready to make plays when they were needed.”
